The Grand Palace in Bangkok is the royal palace of the Thai monarchy. It was built in 1782, covers an area of 218,400 square meters, and has been continually renovated and expanded by successive kings. It used to serve as the residence of the Thai kings and the center of royal administration and is now a tourist attraction symbolizing Thailand's history and culture. The Grand Palace encompasses several important architectural complexes, such as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Middle Court, and the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall.
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, located in the Outer Court of the Grand Palace, is Thailand's most sacred temple, enshrining the Emerald Buddha. Established in 1782, it symbolizes the foundation of the Chakri Dynasty. There are no resident monks in the temple, but it houses artistic works of Thai culture, such as King Rama I's teakwood throne inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Royal ceremonies are still held here.
The Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall was built in 1882 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty. It combines neoclassical and Thai architectural styles. The central hall holds the ashes of past kings and serves as an audience chamber. The eastern wing is designated for reception areas, while the western wing houses the queen's private reception room, featuring furnishings such as a nickel-silver throne and the emblem of the Chakri Dynasty.
Wat Pho, located near the Grand Palace, is famous for its 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha. The intricate mother-of-pearl details of the Buddha depict 108 characteristics of the Buddha and make it one of Thailand's significant cultural and religious sites. The temple is also renowned for its traditional Thai massage school, making it a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Bangkok's culture.
The Supatra River House restaurant, situated along the Chao Phraya River, offers authentic Thai cuisine accompanied by stunning riverside views, particularly at sunset. The restaurant provides free round-trip ferry services from Maharaj Pier, making it an ideal choice for tourists to enjoy the waterfront lifestyle of Bangkok.
